Our Staff

Jared Matthew serves as the Senior Pastor at First Baptist Church. Jared loves the Gospel! His desire is to encourage the body of Christ toward Gospel centered ministry, and to help believers learn how the Gospel works for, in, and through them as they make Jesus the center of their lives.

Jared grew up in farm country just outside of Lancaster, PA. He graduated with a Bachelors degree in Missions from Northland International University. While in Pennsylvania he met his wife Emily, who grew up in Marietta, PA and attended Ambassador Baptist College. After their marriage in July 2010 Jared and Emily moved to Minnesota to pursue seminary training. Jared enrolled in the Master’s of Divinity program at Central Baptist Theological Seminary, and graduated in May of 2016. In July of 2016 Jared was called to be the Senior Pastor of First Baptist and he began serving the following September.

Jared and Emily currently reside in Faribault, where Emily teaches piano from their home. They have two energetic puppies—Chip and Molly and love to explore with their canine companions. Both Jared and Emily have completed marathons and enjoy all things outdoors, especially running, biking, and hiking in the many nearby parks and nature centers. They also enjoy a relaxing afternoon picnic in the park and the sweet smell of a campfire.